As we know from the Acts of the Apostles, the question of ministry in the Christian Community has been a challenge from biblical days when the early Church instituted the Order of Deacon. Still in our own day, the question of adequate ministry to God’s People continues to be a question to which the Church responds in diverse ways in different parts of the world.
The Eastern Church has always had both a married clergy alongside a celibate clergy. In the Western Church there has been a lengthy tradition of only celibate priests. Church authority has reaffirmed this tradition on several different occasions. Nevertheless, this tradition continues to be questioned by some, especially when this tradition apparently prevents the wider celebration of the Eucharist, which is essential to the life of the Christian Community. Nevertheless, in both the Eastern and Western Churches ordination is essential.
The shortage of vocations to the Ordained Priesthood is pressing, particularly in some parts of the world. It is right for the Church Community to be concerned about this shortage. Our Dutch Dominican brothers share this grave concern and desire to dialogue about it. Perhaps they feel that Church authority has not adequately dealt with this question and, therefore, they are pressing for a more open dialogue.
The booklet published by our Dutch brothers was a surprise to the General Curia of the Dominican Order. While we laud the concern of our brothers, we do not believe that the method they have used in disseminating this booklet, nor the solutions that they have proposed are beneficial to the Church nor in harmony with its tradition. While we share their concern about the availability of the Eucharist and priestly ministry, we believe this concern must be responded to in careful theological and pastoral reflection with the wider Church and Dominican Order.
04/09/07
Fr. Edward Ruane, OP
Vicar to the Master of the Order
